MUIR IS NO PUSH-OVER IN DOHA BID
LAURA MUIR believes she can become Britain’s first female world champion over 1500 metres after a superb run in Rome.
The flying Scot clocked her fastest time for three years in only her second track race of the year – despite being pushed and almost knocked over on the opening lap.
Only once has Muir ever clocked a quicker time than the 3 minutes 56.73 seconds, which came so close to beating world-record holder Genzebe Dibaba (below) at Stadio Olimpico. “To be running that time this time of year, I’m so happy,” said the 26-year-old, already European champion over the distance indoors and out.
“But I know I can be faster. I’m not yet where I want to be in training.” Muir’s coach Andy Young agreed, saying: “I think she thinks she can win the gold in Doha and I know she thinks she can go faster. I’m certainly not one to disagree.”
He then revealed the adversity his star athlete had overcome to achieve what she did at the Golden Gala meeting.
“Six weeks ago she wasn’t in great shape, she wasn’t running so well by her standards,” he said.
“Having been basically unbeatable indoors she picked up first a cold then a niggle.
“She then starts this race and after 100m gets pushed back and almost hits the deck, losing about a secondand-a-half. To give that away and still run 3:56 is pretty exciting.
“To run that at any time of year in any year is very special. To do it now, when we’re really only just getting going, is hugely encouraging.”
Muir’s next run is an 800m in Paris on Tuesday, her first race on French soil since setting her 3:55.22 British 1500m record in 2016.